Wonder & Welcome

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A podcast conversation about parenting and following Jesus, hosted by Seth and Shannon Hein.

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Parenting is hard! We know, we've been in the middle of it for over a decade. And we have needed a lot of help and encouragement along the way. That's why we wanted to create the Wonder & Welcome podcast. We've received so much help and support, we want to share some of that with you. We'd always appreciate your feedback and you can get in touch with us on email and or on instagram!

Latest Episode

10: Halloween, Freedom, and a Clear Conscience

Oct 23, 2026

Can Christians celebrate Halloween? Seth and Shannon talk about freedom in Jesus, honoring your conscience, and loving others who make different choices. Drawing on Paul's discussion of food sacrificed to idols in 1 Corinthians, they consider why fear doesn't have to drive family decisions—and how Halloween can be an opportunity to connect with neighbors. Plus, childhood trick-or-treating memories, the Hein family's Spider-Verse costumes, and a few quotes from the kids.

Past Episodes

9: We're Back: Making Room for More

Oct 16, 2026

After two years away, Seth and Shannon return to Wonder and Welcome with a family update: an unexpected foster placement that brought two children into their home and a year of learning to depend on God in new ways. They talk honestly about marriage under pressure, the support of their church community, and why they're restarting the podcast before life slows down. Plus, a look at upcoming conversations about baptism, technology, and pursuing your children's hearts—and why the teenage years can be a season to enjoy.

8: A long time ago...

Jun 26, 2024

The Hein family traveled to Israel in September of 2023 and recorded a parenting conversation with dear friends Daniel and Shachar Harel. We cover diverse topics such as vineyards, bedtime routines, and losing your cool in Hebrew.

7: Prayer and Fasting

Aug 8, 2023

Seth and Shannon discuss how they have including their children in times of prayer and fasting in the life of their church. There are lots of difficulties, but the work is worth it.

6: Weird Encouragements

Jul 18, 2023

Shan remembers things friends have said to her that turned out to be weirdly encouraging.

5: In Alphabetical Order

May 30, 2023

In this episode, we talk with the hilariously wonderful Curt and Brenda McCutchan.

4: A Communicative God

Apr 17, 2023

In this episode, we welcome our very first guest parents and talk about prayer, community, and the importance of working together.

3: Special Introductions

Mar 29, 2023

Today we are sharing with you a parenting seminar from the Confluence 2023 conference, with 4 of our favorite people: Rick and Gayle Hein, and Curt and Brenda McCutchan. Over the next few episodes we will be having both couples on as guests to share more wisdom, insights, and stories!

2: Not Unsolicited Comments

Mar 15, 2023

Input can feel like an attack, but it is often a gift. In this episode, Seth and Shannon discuss the importance of receiving input and feedback in parenting.

1: Encouragers and Squashers

Feb 28, 2023

Seth and Shannon make introductions, explain the meaning behind the name Wonder & Welcome, and share stories of encouraging and squashing wonder and welcome.